Pritzker Breaks Ground On New Grocery Store In Venice

VENICE — Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and regional leaders Thursday to break ground on a new grocery store in Venice, part of the Illinois Grocery Initiative aimed at expanding access to fresh and affordable food in underserved communities. The project, supported by a $2.4 million state grant and private funding, marks a significant step toward revitalizing Venice, a city currently classified as a food desert.“Every single Illinoisan—regardless of their zip code—deserves access to fresh, reliable, and affordable grocery options,” Pritzker said. He emphasized that the initiative supports small, independent grocers and combats food insecurity across the state, including central and southern Illinois communities like Venice.Li